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Local man’s ping pong battle against Parkinson’s

BY INGA HEINECKE SPECIAL TO THE PRESS

Steve Hawkinson of White Bear Lake was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD) in April 2022. Receiving a diagnosis for an incurable disease can be overwhelming.

“Well, I was wiped out,” he explained. “I think for a few days, I was in a fog. Once they told me the diagnosis, things just kind of shut off.”

After receiving a PD diagnosis, lifestyle changes must take place because of changes in balance, cognitive function and motor skills. Hawkinson, who was an elementary and middle school teacher for 32 years, had retired two years prior to his diagnosis. Although there is no cure for PD and treatment options are limited, doctors have found that exercise that is both physically and cognitively stimulating can help slow disease progression. Hawkinson said the hardest part of Parkinson’s is letting go of things he normally did, like things around the house and helping others.

“I used to think I could help everyone else,” he said. “I’ve learned to be an advocate for what I need, whether it’s exercise, eating or sleeping.”

Mahtomedi Garden Club member Sheila Schlechte wears a flower costume while visiting with attendees at the recent RITE of Spring event at Wlidwood Elementary School. Her display features dozens of examples of neighborhood beautification projects the club has helped implement in the White Bear Lake and Mahtomedi Area over the last 20 years. Find more information and useful gardening resources

Doctors also suggest building a strong support network. Hawkinson said his biggest supporter is his wife, Linda. “She’s been my rock,” he explained. “She’s a caring, nurturing person, but she’s never really had to focus too much on me. In the past, we’ve been able to

White Bear school board receives graduation, attendance update

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning

Dr. Alison Gillespie says she is excited about the graduation and attendance data for the district, but the district is still striving for “continuous improvement.”

Gillespie recently visited the School Board along with Matoska International Elementary Principal John Leininger, Otter Lake Elementary Principal Ang Nelson, Central Middle School Principal Cathryn Peterson and White Bear Lake Area High School Principal Russ Reetz. The purpose of the visit was

to dive further into the recently released graduation data and take a closer look at student attendance. Both graduation data and attendance data are lagging measures. Gillespie pointed out that the graduation rates released this year are for the previous school year (2024-2025) and attendance data is two school years behind. The new attendance data for last year will come out in August.

Graduation rates

For the 2024-2025 school year, the four-year graduation rate districtwide was 93.9%. For the high school, it SEE DATA, PAGE 15

Feeling Off Balance?

White Bear Lake names new chief of police

Following a comprehensive selection process, the city of White Bear Lake has selected its next chief of police. Recognized for driving community engagement, implementing innovative public safety initiatives and building diverse, high- performing teams, Erik Johnston brings over 23 years of law enforcement leadership experience. He currently serves as deputy chief of police for the Columbia Heights Police Department; a department he has been a leader of since 2002. Additionally, Johnston has served as captain, sergeant, investigator, school resource officer, street crimes unit member and patrol officer throughout his career.

“Erik’s dedication to law enforcement, calm and professional demeanor, and commitment to public

service make him an excellent fit to assume the role of chief of police for White Bear Lake,” said City Manager Lindy Crawford. “Erik will bring a fresh perspective to the department and I look forward to welcoming him to our leadership team and strong community.”

Johnston will assume the role on May 9. Plans to host a community open house to meet him are underway. Johnston follows Dale Hager, who will retire in early May. Hager has served as White Bear Lake’s chief of police for just under three years.

“I am honored and excited to join the outstanding teams at the White Bear Lake Police Department and the City of White Bear Lake,” Johnston said. “I look forward to building on the department’s strong tradition of excellence in policing and community engagement, and to serving a community that rightly expects the highest standards of professionalism and service.”

Erik Johnston

WHAT’S HAPPENING

WHITE BEAR LAKE CLEANUP DAY

When: 7 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, May 2

Where: 4200 Hoffman Road (former public works site), White Bear Lake

Details: Get rid of unwanted items for a small fee. Household hazardous waste is not accepted. Proof of residency required. See list of accepted items and fees online.

Contact: whitebearlakemn.gov/cleanup

UNDERSTANDING IMMIGRATION: OPERATION METRO SURGE - WHERE ARE WE NOW?

When: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Thursday, April 30

Where: St. Andrews Lutheran Church, 900 Stillwater Road, Mahtomedi

Details: Community event to reflect on Operation Metro Surge, how it affected our community, and learn and share about what's needed now, presented

POLITICAL BRIEF

Stacey Stout secures Republican endorsement for House District 33A

Mahtomedi resident Stacey Stout has won the Republican endorsement for Minnesota House District 33A seat. The seat, which is comprised of

by Many Faces of the White Bear Lake Area. Contact: manyfaceswblarea.org

FIX-IT CLINIC

When: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, May 2

Where: Wildwood Library, 763 Stillwater Road, Mahtomedi

Details: Bring broken items and receive guided assistance with repairs. First come, first served; Two item limit.

Contact: washingtoncountymn.gov/3776/Fix-ItClinics

CENTURY COLLEGE CHAMBER ORCHESTRA SPRING CONCERT

When: 2 p.m. Saturday, May 2

Where: Century College west Campus Theatre, 3300 Century Ave. N., White Bear Lake Details: Performance by students and community musicians.

Contact: century.edu/campus-life/fine-performingarts

DOG WALK FOR VETERANS

When: 1 p.m. Sunday, May 3

Where: Matoska Park, 2345 5th St., White Bear Lake Details: Community dog walk from Matoska Park to the VFW will benefit Believet, a nonprofit that trains service dogs for veterans living with PTSD, MST, and other disabilities to restore independence, confidence and hope. Also drawings and prizes. Contact: believet.org

COMMUNITY LUNCH

When: Noon-1 p.m. Tuesday, May 5

Where: Mahtomedi District Education Center, room

103

Details: Lunch catered by Red Luna Seasons, live music by Folk Revival, and conversation with neighbors. Register by noon, May 1.

Contact: mahtomedi.ce.eleyo.com

Mahtomedi, Dellwood, Grant, Hugo and Forest Lake, is currently held by Rep. Patti Anderson, who has announced she will not run for reelection. Stout has been an attorney for over 25 years.

Stacey Stout

MATOSKA INTERNATIONAL IB ANNUAL ART SHOW

When: 5-7 p.m. Thursday, May 7

Where: Matoska International IB school

Details: Support Matoska's art enrichment program by viewing and purchasing artwork made by students and participating in the silent auction.

HEART 4 ART

When: 5 p.m. Thursday, May 7

Where: Ford Family Gallery, White Bear Center for the Arts

Details: Annual fundraiser for White Bear Center for the Arts includes social hour with cash bar followed by dinner and program. Tickets available online.

Contact: whitebeararts.org

'ONCE UPON A MATTRESS'

When: Through May 17

Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, White Bear Lake

Details: Lakeshore Players' presents a twist on the classic fairy tale “The Princess and the Pea”. Ticket information online. Contact: lakeshoreplayers.org

•

She has been a member of the Mahtomedi School Board for the past 10 years, for four years as chair. Stout’s priorities include quality education, accountability and lower taxes. She lives in Mahtomedi with her husband Tim and their two sons. For more information, visit https:// staceystout.com.

OPINION

Mental Health Awareness Month

For those of who don’t know, May is National Mental Health Awareness Month. May has been recognized as National Mental Health Awareness has been observed since 1949 to reduce stigma, educate the public and support those with mental health conditions.

Madeline’s Mail

Madeline Dolby

As someone who has struggled with mental health for almost a decade, it can be difficult asking for help. Some days it feels like I’m a ghost hovering above my own body and I can’t wait to crawl back into bed. Others, I am on Cloud 9 and never want the day to end. Mental health is never linear. It’s always changing.

When I was 19, a song by one of my favorite artists, Harry Styles, called “Treat People with Kindness” came out. Now, I don’t know how it happened, but the title of the song became my life mantra. If you listen to the song, you will find that it is about encouraging people to be genuinely kind to one another, make small positive changes and embrace a more welcoming world. Since listening to the song, I’ve worked on trying to change my mindset to look at the positives in the world instead of all the negatives. Instead of complaining about having to wake up at 3 a.m. to go to the airport, I think to myself “How lucky am I to be able to afford to go on a fun trip with my friends (or family)!” Instead of complaining about how tired my legs are going to be after long walk with my parents on a Saturday afternoon, I think “I am so glad I’m able to move my body. I’m so glad I’m able to spend time with my parents.”

Another thing I’ve tried to accomplish is not being afraid of complimenting strangers. It sounds weird, I know, but it pushes me out of my comfort zone. I know when I receive a compliment from someone, my mood instantly lifts, and I feel more confident. Why should I not provide those same feel-good feelings to those around me? Who knows, your compliment might just make someone’s day, or even their week.

I’ve realized it is small positive changes, like these, can make all the difference in the world.

While these changes have helped me, I know they might not work for everyone. And resources are available for those who might need extra help. Northeast Youth and Family Services (NYFS) serves a majority of Press Publications’ cities and serves students in the Centennial School District.

NYFS is a local nonprofit mental health clinic and community service provider and has served the area since 1976. It offers therapy, medication management and community programs for individuals, families and couples, specializing in youth, children and adult services. The main NYFS office is located in Shoreview on Lexington Avenue N.

Another resource available is the National Alliance on Mental Health, better known as NAMI. NAMI is the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization. The organization provides a support group for those struggling with mental health conditions called NAMI Connection. Groups meet weekly, monthly, every other week or monthly depending on your location. Many of these support groups are virtual and attendance is open to everyone across the country.

If you, or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, know you are not alone. Resources can be found at, www.nami.org or nyfs. org. And remember to treat people, and yourself, with kindness.

Madeline Dolby is an editor at Press Publications

Valuing community engagement for student success

AMovers & Shakers

Barb Duffrin

t Mahtomedi Public Schools, we are proud of the strong academic foundation we provide and deeply grateful to be part of a community that invests in advancing exceptional, personalized student outcomes together. This partnership is something we intentionally build. For several years, we have created opportunities to engage with our School Board through Coffee & Conversations, invited the community to see our strategic plan in action through our Zephyr Learning Showcase, and held Dessert & Dialogue events focused on key district priorities. We highly value bringing expertise from beyond education to help us better understand what students will need after graduation.

At this month’s Dessert & Dialogue, we engaged our community around Mahtomedi’s Portrait of a Graduate, a key component of our strategic plan. The Portrait outlines the skills, competencies, and dispositions that all Mahtomedi students need to thrive in their future. It was developed through extensive community collabora-

tion, including students, educators, military representatives, business leaders and postsecondary partners.

Our Portrait includes six core components that describe what Mahtomedi graduates should know, demonstrate and embody: collaborator, communicator, ethical, global citizen, innovative thinker, and self-aware and self-directed. These competencies reflect community expectations and align with district instruction and learning experiences both in school and through community engagement.

Our Portrait is intentionally designed to be actionable by students, moving beyond high-level objectives. Each core area includes clear competencies and skills. Our vision is for students to interact with these components in meaningful ways so they can personalize how they understand and demonstrate them.

One Portrait component is ethical. A key competency within this area is “Utilizes Artificial Intelligence (AI) and technology responsibly while staying current on trends for success.” We invited community professionals whose work involves AI to join the Dessert & Dialogue to help inform our thinking; more than 30 participated in the conversation.

Several themes stood out. First, many competencies embedded in our Portrait, such as integrity, innovative thinking and collabo-

Limited to 350 words. Submissions must Include a full name, address and daytime phone number for verification. Letter writers must live, work or have another connection to Press Publications coverage area. Letter writers are limited to six letters per year and at least four weeks must lapse between publication. Exceptions may be made for rebuttal letters. Due to space limitations, letters that don’t address local issues are not guaranteed publication. Repeat letters by the same writer about the same subject matter will not be published.

ration, are distinct human skills that remain essential for success after graduation.

Second, students need background knowledge, context, and content to use AI effectively. This foundation allows them to use critical thinking skills to evaluate AI outputs, check for credibility and misinformation, and recognize the role of human judgment when using AI as a thought partner. For example, one participant noted that even when AI is used for coding, a professional still needs to understand the code to ensure it was built correctly when checking AI’s work.

Third, students should develop the integrity and judgment to recognize when AI enhances and creates efficiencies in their work, rather than replacing their own thinking and voice. These skills are essential first steps in addressing the ethical use and the environmental impacts of AI.

The event reaffirmed the importance of valuing community engagement in preparing students for the future. We understand how students learn and how to create meaningful, personalized opportunities. Our community’s expertise helps us identify the skills and competencies we aim for and reinforces our commitment to preparing students for future success.

Barb Duffrin is the superintendent of Mahtomedi Public Schools.

Submissions containing libelous or derogatory statements will not be published. All letters are subject to editing. Deadline is 5 p. m., Thursday of the week prior to publication. To submit a letter, e-mail it to whitebearnews@presspubs.com, fax it to 651-429-1242 or mail or

deliver it to Press Publications, 4779 Bloom Ave., White Bear Lake, MN 55110. Press Publications publishes 99% of the letters to the editor that meet the guidelines.

WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS | LETTER GUIDELINES

Celebrate Loyalty Day

May 1 is Loyalty Day in the USA. This holiday was developed to set aside for the reaffirmation of loyalty to the United States and for the recognition of the heritage of American freedom.

The U.S. Congress recognized Loyalty Day on April 27, 1955, when it was proclaimed by President Dwight D. Eisenhower and observed for the first time.

This is a day to celebrate the heritage of freedom we have, and to be in unity as we reaffirm our loyalty to our country and to those who are serving and have served.

Joan Mample VFW Post 1782 and Auxiliary

Complaints about taxes

Does anyone else find it ironic that citizens vote for school levies and then complain about high property taxes?

The Legislature is now debating how to provide relief from high property taxes for Minnesotans. But the primary source of revenue for the State of Minnesota is individual income taxes. So, in other words, Minnesota residents who pay income taxes will get a partial refund while residents who do not pay income taxes get free money. Sounds fair to me. Property taxes fund three main government units: the city, the county and the school district. As mentioned above, people love to fund schools. So for those folks, the overspending city and county are to blame. It is also ironic that people keep voting for the very elected officials that keep raising their taxes. I suggest you either vote for somebody else or quit complaining.

Steve

Holupchinski Vadnais Heights

CHURCH BRIEF

What is Article 25?

I hear mumbling about Article 25. At this time, I do not think it realistic, as our president still has too much support. Many think what I and many others consider "unhinged behavior" to be an acceptable negotiating tactic. Regardless, I think it worthwhile to present some detail on just what U.S. Article 25, the 25th Amendment to the Constitution, does.

It provides succession and continuity if a sitting president becomes unable to serve:

(1) The vice president becomes president upon removal;

(2) VP vacancy is filled by nominee confirmed by both Houses of Congress;

(3) VP and a majority of the Cabinet (or a Congressional body) can declare the president unable to serve;

(4) VP and majority of Cabinet transmit a written declaration to the president pro tempore of the Senate and Speaker of the House stating that the president is unable (or unfit) to serve. The VP immediately assumes powers as acting president. The president may challenge, in which case 2/3 of both Houses must confirm the president unfit.

Think about what this country’s president has done:

- Single-handedly attacked a sovereign nation, killing innocents. Isn’t this what Putin did in Ukraine? Is this less evil than what Iran was doing?

- Threatened vociferously to annihilate a nation. Which is the evil empire?

- Has destroyed U.S. relations with important allied countries and driven them closer to China.

- Imposed tariffs which have served only to harm U.S. farmers and businesses and increase consumer costs, while U.S. infrastructure looks increasingly third-world. While the U.S. is unable to put together a highspeed rail program and walks away

from electric cars, our president redesigns the White House and plans a superior "Arc de Trump" in his name and spends billions on an illegal war in Iran which will result in a much worse situation than it was when it started.

Larry Mahoney White Bear Township

Open your home, open the world

Since 1980, the White Bear Lake Rotary Club has welcomed international exchange students into our community and sent local students abroad. For more than four decades, these students have attended either White Bear Lake Area High School or Mahtomedi High School, providing unique interactions and experiences for the students in these schools. The program is volunteer-run, but its strength lies in the host families who open their homes for 12–14 weeks. For the 2026-27 school year, the Rotary Club is looking for more volunteers willing to serve as host families.

For the 2026–2027 school year, Rotary will be hosting two students who will attend Mahtomedi High School. They’re excited (and a little nervous) to move somewhere new and become part of a community that will soon feel like home.

One host parent shared a moment that stuck with them. Their student said, “I want to make you a breakfast

from my country,” and before long the kitchen was a bit of a mess, flour everywhere, a few guessed-at substitutions, and lots of gut-laughs. When it was done, the student apologized that it didn’t taste like it did back home.

The host parent’s response: “It’s perfect.” And they meant it.

That’s really what this experience is about. Not big, dramatic moments, just real, everyday life shared together.

Hosting exchange students is more doable than many people think. Families typically host for about 3 1/2 months, so it’s a meaningful but manageable commitment. You don’t need a perfect house, just a willingness to include someone in your daily routine. Rotary provides support along the way.

What you get in return is amazing. Hosts gain a new perspective, a connection to another part of the world, and often a relationship that lasts long after the exchange ends. If you’ve thought about doing something like this, now’s a great time.

To learn more Rotary Youth Exchange, or to volunteer, contact wblrotary1@comcast.net or visit northstarrotary.com/hostfamilies.

Sometimes the smallest moments, like a weekend breakfast, can make the biggest difference.

Julie

in Mahtomedi, will host a rummage sale from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday, April 30, and Friday, May 1; and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, May 2. For more information, visit https:// whitebearunitarian.org or contact rummage@wbuuc.org.

White Bear Lake Area

Honsa White Bear Lake Rotary Club

Frank Watson is a local Meteorologist who operates a weather station in White Bear Lake. Weather data and observation are from his weather station and trips around the area.

COPS&COURTS

WHITE BEAR LAKE POLICE REPORTS

The White Bear Lake Police Department reported the following selected incidents:

Officers responded to a weapons complaint in the 2100 block of First Street April 15.

• A resident in the 1600 block of Eugene Street was warned about barking dog violations and failure to license a dog April 15.

• Officers responded to a civil problem in the 3600 block of Rolling View Drive April 15.

• A Monticello man was arrested for a gross misdemeanor warrant for 5th degree drug possession after officers were called to the 3500 block of Century Avenue April 15 for a report of disorderly conduct.

• A storage shed in the 1700 block of Fourth Street was broken into sometime in the past 6 weeks.

• Women's Prada sunglasses were reported missing or stolen in the 1900 block of Buerkle Road April 15.

• A Shoreview man was cited for operating a wireless communication device while driving following a 2-vehicle crash in the 4800 block of White Bear Parkway April 15.

• Fraus was reported in the 3900 block of Van Dyke Street April 15.

• Officers responded to a noise complaint in the 4600 block of Lake Avenue April 15.

• A driver was cited for failure to yield following a 2-vehicle accident at Highway 96 and White Bear Parkway April 15.

• Officers responded to a fireworks complaint in the 2400 block of Floral Drive April 15.

WASHINGTON COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORTS

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office reported the following selected calls for service in Birchwood Village, Dellwood, Grant, Mahtomedi, Pine Springs and Willernie: Grant

• After deputies responded to a fraud call from the 7000 block of Kimbro Avenue N. March 27, they learned from the complainant that her bank in Las Vegas was refusing to reimburse her for fraudulent charges to her card made in Kenosha, Wisconsin, that had occurred in January. Deputies advised the complainant to contact the agency where the fraud had occurred, as law enforcement could do nothing about events that didn’t take place in Minnesota or in the city of Grant.

• A resident in the 9000 block of 60th Street N. reported being poked in the head by buckthorn on March 28.

• Deputies took a report of a ball being thrown at multiple cars on 75th Street N. and Jocelyn Road N. March 28. Deputies arrived on scene and had a chat with the parties involved.

Mahtomedi

• A bike key was reported found March 22 on the bike path near Wedgewood Drive. Deputies took the key and logged it into evidence as found property.

• Deputies conducted a traffic stop on March 22 on Wildwood Road at Birchwood Road and issued a citation for expired registration. A second motorist was cited March 23 for speeding on Long Lake Road. A third motorist was cited March 24 on Dunbar Way and Long Lake Road for speeding in a 20 mph zone. A fourth motorist was issued a written warning March 27

• A complainant in a disorderly conduct incident in the 1600 block of Birch Lake Avenue April 15 reported two people drove up next to her car and warned her to stay away from a juvenile. Investigation is ongoing.

• Harassment was reported in the 4400 block of White Bear Parkway April 16.

• A man was arrested for outstanding warrants in the 1700 block of Fourth Street April 16.

• Theft was reported in the 4600 block of Clark Avenue April 16.

• A cat was safely rescued from a roof in the 2300 block of Sixth Street April 16.

• Disorderly conduct was reported near the intersection of Highway 61 and Fourth Street April 16.

• Officers responded to a dispute in the 4600 block of Shady Lane April 16.

• Harassment was reported in the 2400 block of Floral Drive April 16.

• A White Bear Lake woman was arrested for a warrant on Century Avenue April 17. Officers mediated an an incident at the police station after two drivers followed each other there following an altercation that started on Interstate 35E April 17.

• A man was arrested following a robbery in the 2400 block of Floral Drive April 17.

• Officers responded to a domestic dispute near the 1800 block of Buerkle Road April 18.

A St. Paul man was arrested for theft after shoplifting from a business in the 1900 block of Buerkle Road April 18.

on Mahtomedi Avenue for speeding with a cell phone in one hand, after deputies observed a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed.

• A motorist was arrested March 23 on Wildwood Road for driving after revocation and failure to provide proof of insurance, after being pulled over for failing to signal a turn.

• A Wildwood Road resident reported decorative property stolen from outside her apartment door on March 23.

• A passenger in a suspicious vehicle parked in the parking lot of a closed college campus in the 3000 block of Century Avenue at 1:13 a.m. March 25 was arrested for violating a domestic abuse no-contact order. On investigation, deputies discovered a served DANCO protecting the driver from the passenger in the car. The passenger was removed from the vehicle and taken to the Washington County Law Enforcement Center to be booked.

• While on overnight patrol at 12:37 a.m. March 26, deputies observed a vehicle parked in the college parking lot at unusual hours. The driver was a student at the college who had to be at the college until late and had early morning classes. He said he didn’t want to drive home to the neighboring state for the night. Deputies allowed the driver to sleep in the car.

• In the Case of the Unresuscitated Raccoon, deputies were dispatched out to a residence on Long Lake Road March 26 on a question of how to dispose of a deceased raccoon on the property. Deputies advised the complainants that they could bury the ex-raccoon themselves or deputies could contact public works. The residents said they would take care of the raccoon themselves.

• Disorderly conduct was reported near the 2600 block of County Road E April 18.

• A White Bear Lake man was arrested for DWI following a driving complaint near Highway 61 and Lake Avenue April 18.

• A Vadnais Heights resident was arrested for DWI following a traffic stop in the area of Goose Lake Road and Labore Road April 18.

• A domestic disturbance was reported in the 4600 block of Bald Eagle Avenue April 19.

• Disorderly conduct was reported in the 3400 block of Willow Avenue April 19.

• A dog-at-large was reported near Cedar Avenue and Cranbrook Drive April 20.

• A suspect was mailed a citation for failure to drive with due care following a report of a hit and run in the area of White Bear Avenue and County Road E April 20.

• Fraud was reported in the 2200 block of County Road E April 20.

• Theft was reported in the 1000 block of Highway 96 April 21. Domestic assault and second degree burglary were reported in the 3600 block of Hoffman Road April 21.

• Disorderly conduct was reported April 21 in the 3500 block of McKnight Road.

• A White Bear Lake man was arrested for misdemeanor theft in the 4600 block fo Highway 612 April 21. Officers responded to a juvenile incident in the 2200 block of Birch Street April 21.

RAMSEY COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORTS

• Deputies assisted the Mahtomedi Fire Department on Lincolntown Avenue March 26 in extinguishing a small bonfire pit that was still smoking near the troop house of Katherine Abbott Park.

Pine Springs

• A motorist on Highway 36 and I-694 was cited at 3:58 a.m. March 25 for speeding and displaying expired registration while doing so.

• In the Case of the Collected Cat, deputies responded to the intersection of Hilton Court N. and Hilton Trail N. March 26 on a report of an injured orange cat that had been struck by a car. When deputies arrived, the cat got up and ran off into the woods.

Willernie

• In the Case of the Cat Caterwauling, deputies received a report of a disturbance on Charing Lane at 3:38 a.m. March 21 involving people walking around with flashlights and talking loudly. Deputies arrived on scene and found a vehicle with its doors open and hood up. The individuals on scene said they were looking for their missing cat. While deputies were still with the people, their cat was found. Deputies advised the group to keep the noise down and stay off private property.

• Deputies on stop sign violation patrol near Stillwater Road and Warner Avenue N. March 23 issued a written warning to a motorist for displaying expired registration. A second driver was cited March 28 at that same intersection for failure to stop at the stop sign.

• A burglary was reported at a Warner Road residence on March 26.

Vadnais Heights:

• Deputies responded March 22 to a business in the 800 block of County Road E East after a mother and her teenage son were caught by store security attempting to steal merchandise. Deputies issued a parking citation March 23 to the owner of a Mazda CX-9 illegally parked in a handicapped space in the 800 block of County Road E East.

• On March 25, deputies arrested a 45-year-old Maplewood man for DWI after receiving a call from a concerned resident in the 1000 block of County Road D East about his presence in a vehicle near their house. The man performed poorly on standard field sobriety tests and was booked into the Ramsey County jail.

• Deputies arrested a 25-year-old man from Mounds View on an active arrest warrant out of Olmstead County March 25 after responding to a complaint about his refusal to leave a property in the 3300 block of Vadnais Lane at which he was being disruptive.

• After making a traffic stop on March 25 in the area of I-694 and Rice Street, deputies arrested a 32-year-old-man from Coon Rapids for drunken driving.

• A 25-year-old man in the 1200 block of County Road D reported March 26 that someone stole his shotgun out of his residence. The incident is under investigation.

• Deputies responded March 26 to a single-vehicle crash in the 800 block of County Road E East. There were no signs of driver impairment and just minor damage to the vehicle.

• Deputies cited a 37-year-old Maplewood woman for theft March 26 after she was caught by employees at a business in the 800 block of County Road E East attempting to leave the store without paying for merchandise.

• Deputies responded March 27 to a Famous Footwear in the 900 block of County Road E East after someone stole approximately $800 worth of merchandise. The incident is under investigation.

• Deputies responded March 27 to a gas station in the 3200 block of Highway 61 and issued a citation to a St. Paul man who repeatedly returned merchandise that he’d previously stolen from the business.

White Bear Township:

• Deputies responded March 22 to a report of a Luverne man who violated an order for protection by contacting a woman he is legally prohibited from contacting in the 5900 block of Norway Pine Court. The incident is under investigation.

• Deputies responded March 23 to a report of shoplifting at a grocery store in the 1000 block of Meadowlands Drive. Deputies collected evidence and began an investigation.

• A 56-year-old woman in the 5600 block of Hugo Road reported March 24 being scammed out of a significant amount of money by a person she met online who was believed to be receiving medical treatment. The incident is under investigation.

• On March 25, a 44-year-old woman in the 1500 block of Highway 96 East reported receiving threatening phone calls and text messages from a man she does not know. The incident is under investigation.

• Deputies responded March 28 to a grocery store in the 1000 block of Meadowlands Drive and issued a theft warrant to an 18-year-old man who was caught by loss prevention employees attempting to leave the store without paying for merchandise.

White Bear Area School Board votes against academic letter change

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

To incentivize more high school students to take the Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments (MCAs), the School Board Policy Committee and district cabinet pitched an idea to the School Board that would change how students can receive an academic letter.

Assistant Superintendent of Teaching and Learning Dr. Alison Gillespie described it as a “complex issue.”

She said, “We have heard a lot of the debates around our MCA tests, and we absolutely do not discredit their value. It also is hard when there is an option for families to opt out, because when students opt out it counts against us as a student not meeting standards.”

Gillepse shared that last year, 40% of juniors opted out of the math MCA and 20% of sophomores opted out of reading and science.

“No one student’s academic success boils down to a test. We know that and we agree with that. What happens is that those two data points are inaccurate and we are unable to make conclusions around those data points.”

According to Policy 599 (Academic Recognition), students must have a 3.67 GPA to qualify for an academic letter. The proposed change to the policy would require students to earn a score of “meets or exceeds” on the MCAs, Minnesota Test of Academic Skills (MTAS) or on the Alternative Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments (alternative MCAs) to be eligible for an academic

OBITUARIES

letter. Students who opt out of or do not complete the MCA or MTAs assessments would not be eligible to letter.

“By encouraging more of our students to engage in the test … we think we are going to see a significant increase in how our overall school performs in MCA reading and science at the sophomore level,” said High School Principal Russ Reetz. “We also think by motivating more of our junior students to engage and take the test seriously, we will see higher results with our 11th grade students on the math MCA.”

School Board

Member Daniel Skaar wondered how White Bear’s opt-out rates compare to other neighboring districts like Centennial and Mahtomedi. Gillespie and Reetz said they weren’t sure, but Gillespie pointed out the rationale for the change was wanting accurate numbers of how students are performing. She explained that the students who don’t take the test count as “not proficient.” Fifty percent of the district’s national ranking comes down to MCA test results.

considering approval.

“I feel like our school profile and the way that people talk about how White Bear Lake High School performs is often in relation to what they see on an MCA exam. I know as a principal, I would like to use data that we learned from the exam in making curricular decisions, in making staffing decisions. Right now, it is not a valid set of data,” Reetz explained. “Every school district that we are compared to is looking for ways to improve the (number of) students that participate on the MCA exam.”

“I’m anxious about a parental decision to opt out of a standardized test, then reflecting on a student’s ability to letter. That makes me a little nervous,”

Jessica Ellison WBLAS School Board Member

Reetz added that he has heard from several principals who are trying creative things to get more students to take the exams, like giving them a day off from school or offering them a parking pass the following year. “If we don’t find a way to help our students take the test more seriously or increase our participation on the exam, I think we really need to look at the results of that exam much differently,” he said.

little bit like a punishment.”

Gillespie responded, “Obviously, our goal is not to punish our kids. It’s also super hard to listen continuously about a certain portion of our population saying how terrible we are based on one test … We want to have that data be accurate, because otherwise we will continuously not be able to meet the expectations.”

School Board Member Angela Thompson said she agreed that changing the policy would be seen as punishment and wanted to know more about the population of students who are opting out and their reasons for doing so. “This is a systems issue, not a people issue. The testing itself is the issue,” she said. “To me, that says get rid of the test and find a different way to figure out what students are learning and how they are learning … I’m not a fan of this. I can’t support this one.”

Skaar suggested tabling the item for further discussion, but Gillespie pointed out that it was a time-sensitive manner so that the district could communicate with families. She suggested the board consider adopting the policy after the first reading, rather than its typical process of conducting two readings before

Susan Rose Torgerson

age 89, of White Bear Lake, Minnesota, passed away on April 17, 2026.

Born in 1936, in Winona, Minnesota, Susan grew up primarily in Clear Lake, Iowa, and lived a life rooted in faith, family, and devotion to others. Susan was a beloved wife, sister, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother whose presence brought warmth, grace, and steady love to generations of family and friends.

Susan found joy in time spent with family, tending to gardens, exploring antique shops, and nurturing a deep and meaningful spiritual life. Faith was a guiding light, shaping a life marked by kindness, generosity, and quiet strength.

Throughout the years, Susan devoted time and talent to caring for family and community. Susan was a homemaker and later worked as an administrative assistant at White Bear Mariner High School and at 3M Corporation. She loved to travel extensively with her husband, seeing Europe, many parts of Asia, and the Holy Lands. In retirement, Susan embraced a shared passion for antiques, co owning and operating Twins Treasures with her twin sister, Sandra Bjorndahl. The business specialized in jewelry, hats, and treasured collectibles, reflecting Susan’s eye for beauty and appreciation for history.

Susan was preceded in death by her husband Donald (Torg) Torgerson of 64 years in 2020 and is survived by four children—Todd, Scott, Sonia (Ginnell), and Lori (Pettine); ten grandchildren; four great grandchildren; and a beloved older sister, Judy Marshall. Susan’s legacy lives on through a family bound by love, faith, and enduring memories.

No public services are planned. The family will hold a private celebration of life at a later date, giving thanks for a life well lived and a faith that continues beyond this life.

Michael D. Huseth

Age 80 of Mahtomedi, died April 18, 2026, at the Minnesota Veterans Home in Minneapolis due to complications of Parkinson’s disease. Survived by wife, Gayle; children, Rebecca (Jay) and Amanda (Bob); and 5 grandchildren. Michael will be buried at Fort Snelling National Cemetery. Mueller Memorial, 651-429-4944 www.muellermemorial.com

School Board Member Jessica Ellison said she has opted all of her kids out of taking the MCAs for several years. “I’m anxious about a parental decision to opt out of a standardized test, then reflecting on a student’s ability to letter. That makes me a little nervous,” she said. “I know that this is not how it is meant, it is certainly not the intent, but it feels a

Dennis (Denny) M. Kiel

76, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, surrounded by family.

Denny was born on February 10, 1950, in St. Paul, Minnesota, to Ron and Josephine Kiel. He chose to live his life with passion, joy, and love, standing firmly for peace, inclusion, and preservation of the environment.

After a full career as a journeyman carpenter and small business owner, Denny became the Director of Mission Jamaica for St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church in Mahtomedi, where he was a dedicated member for 40 years and served in missions for over 20 years. He was part of the first teams for several international mission partnerships, including Mission Jamaica, Vision lovakia, and Bega Kwa Bega in partnership with the Kipanga Parish in Tanzania.

Denny helped grow the Mission Jamaica partnership to include thousands of volunteers who built homes and supported schools. He and his wife Barb found their greatest joy in expanding Westhaven Children’s Home for individuals with severe disabilities. Closer to home, he was an active participant in Habitat for Humanity for many years, driven by his belief that everyone deserves safe, affordable housing.

Denny enjoyed fishing, hunting, and gardening, but

Louis Elmer Grittner

Age 86 of St. Paul, MN. Born 2-27-1940 in Little Falls, MN. Died 4-17-2026. Member of Iron Workers Union Local 512. Dedicated Mason and Shriner. Preceded in death by parents Leander Grittner and Josephine (Dement), brother Leander Jr. and second wife Clare (Zammit). Survived by sisters Dorine Grittner and Sharon (Robert) George; first wife Paula (Sherseth), Sons Michael, Mark, Matthew, Mitchell; grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Masonic Rites Service will be held May 3 at Ancient Landmark Lodge 5 in St Paul. Visiting hour at 2pm service at 3pm. At a later date, Interment Fort Snelling National Cemetery.

School Board Member Deborah Sharpee Beloyed said that high school students have so many other priorities when it comes to testing, including the pre-ACT, the ACT and the SAT. “Most high school students are focused on that. That’s their priority; the MCA just isn’t a priority for them, so to me, it is how do we develop a culture, how do we put a carrot in front of those students to take that? That’s the issue to me.”

The policy change ultimately failed in a 2-4 vote (board members Thompson, Sharpee Beloyed, Ellison and Skaar voted no).

“This is a really complex problem for us. We will have to keep talking about it,” Gillespie said.

above all, he cherished his family and friends. He spoke proudly of them and had the remarkable ability to see the best in nearly everyone. A hard worker, Denny could fix or repurpose practically anything. He found joy in cooking, canning, and pickling. He loved to laugh. For over 40 years, friends and family gathered at his beach to celebrate the Fourth of July. Many will remember Denny serving root beer floats and passing out freezies to generations of kids. We know he would want us to keep celebrating in that same joyful spirit. He will be deeply missed by his partner and her family, Beth; his son, Patrick (Lynette), whose generous liver donation gave Denny seven additional years; his grandsons, Gabe and Logan; his granddaughter, Alana (Jay Homan); his sisters, Ellie, Kitty, and Corky; his brothers, Ron, Kevin, Chris, and Joe; his extended family of cousins, nieces, and nephews; and the many people he welcomed as family.

Denny was preceded in death by Barb, his wife of over 40 years; Bailey, his granddaughter; and Diana, his sister.

A visitation will be held at St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church in Mahtomedi, Minnesota, on May 2, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., followed by a Celebration of Life at 11:00 a.m. Refreshments will be served in the Fellowship Hall. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to St. Andrew’s Mission Jamaica, the St. Andrew’s Community Resource Center, which provides hope, strength, and essential support and shelter for local families, or the BeBailey Foundation, a nonprofit started by the Kiel family that provides financial support for young people to go on mission trips, environmental conservation and education groups Bailey was part of.

(Full Name)

Years and age listed here followed by the names of family members, life accomplishments, places traveled, jobs held, or descriptions of what was important to the person.

To Submit an Obit

Call: 651-407-1250

Email: obits@presspubs.com

Visit us at: 4779 Bloom Ave

Your Boat Club announces interim CEO

Patrick Finn, of Lighthouse Management Group Inc. in New Brighton, will serve as the interim CEO of Your Boat Club following the retirement of the company’s founder, Luke Kujawa. Your Boat Club offers pontoons, fish -

Another two wild and crazy weeks! Through the wind and cold, the Loon pairs found each other and claimed their nesting territories. Anticipated first hatch is May 17 and 18, with a second hatch, days later.

Patrick Finn

ing boats and speed boats at more than 30 marinas, resorts and docks across Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois and Florida.

Lighthouse Management Group is a corporate renewal adviser that helps clients and their stakeholders navigate and resolve difficult business issues, including turnaround, crisis and interim management, debt restructuring and asset disposition consulting.

Finn has been a partner at Light-

house Management Group for more than 25 years and has held several interim CEO and CFO roles.

The Minnesota Star Tribune reported that Wells Fargo Bank had filed a lawsuit in Hennepin County District Court seeking to repossess 269 boats tied to an alleged $4.5 million loan default. Kujawa subsequently told The Timberjay newspaper in Tower, Minnesota, that the lawsuit was cured within days of the filing and said the dispute did not

affect the company’s operations. For more information on Your Boat Club, visit https://yourboatclub.com.

Huff & Puff Dispensary opens in Vadnais Heights

A locally owned dispensary called Huff & Puff Dispensary has opened

MORE BUSINESS BRIEFS,

CAUGHT

Loon Chronicles XI: Caught on LoonCam

As predicted, the returning Loons put on quite a show during the last two weeks. It did not take long for the Peninsula and Cove pairs to find each other and lay claim to their respective nesting territories. Len installed solar-operated cameras on both canopynests to help monitor Loon activity at night and in bad weather. The Peninsula pair checked out their old open nest and the new canopy-nest. The camera caught a variety of nocturnal visitors, including geese, ducks, and muskrats, who also had their eyes on the canopy-nest. During several morning visits, we spotted a pair of muskrats on the canopy-nest. Fortunately, muskrats are herbivorous rodents and are not known to prey on Loons and their chicks. In the end, the muskrats gave up, found housing elsewhere, and the Loons took over sole occupancy on April 13. On April 20 and 21, mama Loon laid two eggs, after a whirlwind courtship

WB SENIOR CENTERREGISTRATION REQUIRED651-653-3121

The White Bear Area Senior Center has weekly activities and classes. Register at 651653-3121 or visit: District Senior Center, 2399 Cedar Ave, WBL (entrance on Cranbrook). All classes at the Senior Center unless otherwise indicated.

55+ Driver Safety, $35: In

Person: May 27, 5-9pm / June 2, 1-5pm | Online: Apr 28, 1-5pm / May 21, 9am-1pm Hummingbird Acrylic Painting: Thu, Apr 30, 10am-12pm, $40

History w/K.Simmer: Pest Houses & Grave Robbers: Fri, May 1, 10am-12pm, $18 Chair Yoga: Mon, May 4-18, 10-10:45am, $24 Vinyasa Yoga: Tue, May 5-Jun 23, 5:30-6:30pm, $96, Bellaire Beach

Pre-Planning for the Inevitable: Wed, May 6, 1011:30am, $5

Sewing: Altering Jeans: Wed, May 5-20, 2-4pm, $155r Understanding VA Benefits for Home Care: Thu,May 7, 10-11am, $5 Learn & Bingo: Thu, May 7, 10am-12pm, $5 Medicaid & Elderly Waiver Information: Thu, May 7, 6-7:15pm, $25 Paint Like Van Gogh: Sunflowers: Fri, May 8, 10am-12pm, $40 Master Your Health: Your Records & Numbers Explained: Tue, May 12, 10-11:30am, $5 Building a Culture of Kindness: Tur, May 12, 11am-12:30pm, $5 Rain Barrels: Thu, May 14, 3-4pm, $20, Forest Lake Volunteer with Purpose: Thu, May 14, 10-11:30am, $5 History w/K.Simmer: If the Walls Could Talk: Fri, May 29, 10am-12pm, $18

and several days of very cold and windy weather. The Peninsula pair are experienced parents, and we anticipate hatches on May 17 and 18. We have watched the pair take turns on nest duty, with little drama. The parents are notably more relaxed this year. Last year’s interloper is not around, which allows the parents to remain focused on each other. An entirely different story is unfolding in the Cove, which is filled with scores of elevated goose nests and their incessant honking cacophony. Mallards, coots, and ducks have tried out the new canopy-nest. We were surprised that a goose could even fit in the nest. During our visits, we spotted the Cove pair everywhere but on the nest. On April 14, the LoonCam caught both parents making their way onto the nest, where they remained for a few hours. On April 25, we heard one of the Loons frantically calling its mate, and found the pair deep in the bulrushes, playfully

weaving in and out together. This went on for quite some time. Eventually, the pair headed toward an abandoned goose nest. After some gentle cooing, mama Loon climbed up and took her seat on the nest, while papa stayed close by and swam sentry. A muskrat sat quietly, near the edge of the nest and eventually moved. It appears, just like last year, that the Cove parents have commandeered another goose nest and will use it as their own. We plan to keep the canopy-nest in place, in the event re-nesting is required. We suspect that the Cove pair will lay their eggs in the next few days. Everything is in place and on schedule. A third pair of Loons, often spotted along the Birchwood shore, has not yet taken to the Birchwood nest. There is still time.

Ellen Maas

MAHTOMEDI COMMUNITY EDUCATION

ADULT ACTIVITIES AT THE MAHTOMEDI DISTRICT EDUCATION CENTER (DEC) 1520 MAHTOMEDI AVE.

All activities are held at the DEC unless otherwise noted.

Mondays: Mahjong - FREE 1-3 pm

Bingo - FREE. Monday, March 30th

Tuesdays: Cribbage - FREE 1-3 pm

Wednesdays: Bridge - FREE 12:30-3:30 pm

Thursdays: 500 Cards - FREE 12:30-3 pm

Fridays: Games - FREE 12:30-3 pm; BridgeFREE 1-3 pm;

Book Club - FREE 2nd Friday, 10-11:30 am

The following requires registration: mahtomedi. ce.eleyo.com or call 651-407-2018

Dr. Mark Seeley: The Art and Science of Cloud Forms and Cloud Appreciation - $25. Thursday, April 30th, 6:30-7:30 pm Birding 101: A Birdwatching Morning - $10. Saturday, May 2nd, 8-9:15 am. Katherine Abbott Park

Community Lunch - $12. Tuesday, May 5th, 11:30 am-1 pm Lunch menu: Tacos (chicken or beef), beans, rice, chips and salsa, drinks, and dessert from Red Luna Seasons Live music provided by

LYNGBLOMSTEN COMMUNITY SERVICES

For information about any of the resources described below, contact Lisa Brown, MSW, LISW, at (651) 632-5320 or caregiving@lyngblomsten.org

Caregiver Education Series: Assistive Technology Support for Family Caregivers. Join Lyngblomsten Community Services on June 3 from 11 AM–12:30 PM at its Como Park campus (1415 Almond Ave., Saint Paul, MN 55108) for a presentation about how assistive technology (AT) can be used as a tool to ease symptoms experienced with dementia and to relieve caregiver stress. Presenters will discuss how AT can help people with dementia feel safer, more competent, more independent, and more successful with daily tasks in order to remain in their homes longer. AT devices will be available to view and try out. Registration required by June 1; visit www.Lyngblomsten.org/ATCaregiving to RSVP and to learn more.

Folk Revival. Registration Deadline: Friday, May 1st at Noon. No refunds will be issued after this date. Forest Bathing Walking Meditation - FREE. Saturday, May 9th, 10-11:15 am. Katherine Abbott Park History with Kathy Simmer: “Being a Japanese American During World War II”- $18. Monday, May 11th 10 am-12pm OR Tuesday, May 12th, 10 am-12 pm.

55+ Defensive Driving Class - $35. In-PersonWednesday, May 20th, 1-5 pm Landmark Tours Travel Presentation - FREE. Wednesday, May 27th, 10-11 am.

Memory Loss Caregiver Support Group. Family and friends caring for someone living with memory loss are welcome. A virtual support group meets at 10:30 AM on the 2nd Tuesday of each month. An in-person support group meets at 10:30 AM the 4th Tuesday of each month at Lyngblomsten at Lino Lakes (6070 Blanchard Blvd., Lino Lakes). Registration is preferred, but walk-ins are welcome.

Resources for family caregivers. Are you or someone you know seeking support as you care for a person living with memory loss? Lyngblomsten Community Services is here to help you navigate your caregiving journey. We specialize in memory loss support. Contact us to learn more about available community resources, The Gathering group respite, educational opportunities, and support groups. Our trained staff are ready to listen and assist you in taking the next step on your journey.

Lyngblomsten Community Services is supported in part by gifts made to the Lyngblomsten Foundation and is funded under an award with Trellis as part of the Older Americans Act

ELLEN

its doors at 1142 County Road E in Vadnais Heights. Armando Cavazos owns the business. Huff & Puff Dispensary started with a straightforward idea: buying cannabis should not feel

confusing, intimidating or sketchy. The business, which prides itself on putting the customer first, offers a carefully curated selection of cannabis flower, edibles, vapes, concentrates, tinctures, topicals, pre-rolls, glass pipes and hookahs — all lab-tested and sourced from licensed Minnesota producers.

For more information about Huff & Puff Dispensary, visit https://huffandpuffdispensarymn. com.

Workforce Development Board seeks business representatives

The Washington County Local Workforce Development Board has several business representative vacancies. A business representative

must be someone in a leadership position (policymaking and hiring authority) at a private sector business within Washington County. It is also ideal that the person be in an industry that is in demand within Washington County, including health care, manufacturing, construction or other key industries.

Generally, representatives are expected to attend about four meetings each year, but there may be opportunities for additional meetings for strategic planning or events that are occurring across the county. To apply, or for more information, visit www.washingtoncountymn.gov/1603/ Workforce-Development-Board. Questions should be directed to Ryan Selock at Ryan.Selock@ washingtoncountymn.gov.

May 10: Mother's Day

May 10: Mother's Day at the Winery

May 10: Live Music - Gary LaRue (Ticketed

May 10: Music: Claire Isakson

May 10: Mother's Day Yoga

TRAVEL GUIDE

May 11: 3D Paper Art Design Class 5 - 7:30pm

May 12: Bingo 6:30 - 8pm

May 13: Live Music - Mike Bustin 5-8pm

May 13: Cribbage Tournament 5:30 - 7pm Rustic Roots

May 15: Art at the Winery 6 p.m. - 8:30 pm. Dancing Dragonfly

May 16: Twin Cities Vintage Flea Market Big Wood Brewery

May 16: Music by Paul Berger's Trip 6-9pm Big Wood Brewery

May 17: Candle Making Class 1 - 4pm Rustic Roots

May 17: Live Music - Tyler Herwig 2 - 5pm Two Silo

May 17: Music: Chris Bertrand 3 - 6pm Rustic Roots

May 19: Trivia with Ryan 6:30 - 8pm Rustic

May 20: Live Music - Becky Rae Dalton

May 21: Summer Artisans' Market

May 21: Trivia Night

May 23: Music by The Flannel Brothers

May 24: Music: Riverside Unplugged 3 - 6pm

May 26: Bingo 6:30 - 8pm

May 27: Monthly Book Club 5:30 - 6:30pm Rustic Roots

May 27: Cribbage Tournament 5:30 - 7pm

May 27: Live Music - Billy McLaughlin

May 28: Give Back Night

May 30: Kolsch Event!

May 30: German music by "Squeezy" Wes Miller 6-9pm Big Wood Brewery

May 31: Live Music - Steve Cassavant 2 - 5 pm Two Silo

May 31: Live Music - Mark Stary 2-5pm 7 Vines

May 31: Music: Flannel Brothers 3 - 6pm Rustic Roots

JEFF MATTHIES | CONTRIBUTED Huff & Puff Dispensary held a ribbon-cutting on April 20. Pictured, from left, are Sydney, Ray, T.C., Armando, Tammy, Berto, Aaron and Corina.

• A $1,000 donation from Chapter 745 of the Experimental Aircraft Association will go toward hosting The Wall That Heals, a touring display of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial that will be on view at Polar Lakes Park this August. This chapter is housed at Benson Airport, which is located within White

Bear Township, and the members of the chapter wanted to express their support for their community and for the memorial with this donation. Darryl LeMire, David Roster and Doug Binder appeared at the April 20 meeting of the township board to formally present the check.

• White Bear Township’s polling venues for 2026 elections are now officially set at Tamarack Nature Center, Lakeshore Players Theatre, South Shore Trinity Lutheran Church and Heritage Hall. Check the Secretary of the State website to find your local polling place.

• Thanks to a newly approved variance for a nonconforming single-family home, one local family will finally be able to add a second-story playroom above the garage.

• An amended conditional use permit will now allow Ramsey County to

proceed with Phase II of its planned improvements to the Bald Eagle-Otter Lake off-leash dog area. Visitors can look forward to crushed gravel trails, increased ADA accessibility and seasonal water service. The park will be temporarily closed during improvements, and signs will be posted at the park as well as shared online by Ramsey County and White Bear Township. This project is just one of three Ramsey County dog parks that will receive improvements. The work will be staggered, allowing dog owners to visit the alternative off-leash areas—Rice Creek and Battle Creek—during the temporary closure.

• The Anderlie Lane area improvement project within the Bloom Road neighborhood, including mill and overlay, is one step closer to breaking ground. The township board approved

plans and specifications and authorized solicitation of bids, to be published May 13. Bids will be reviewed at the May 20 township meeting.

• James Linn was reappointed for a three-year term to the Public Safety Commission, and Cory Huberty will serve another three-year term on the Park Board.

• Members of the township board have heard continuing concerns about the township’s emergency fire services contract. The board directed that city staff share an editorial letter with the White Bear Press to give concerned residents more information.

PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES

OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA SECRETARY OF STATE

CERTIFICATE OF AMENDED ASSUMED NAME

Pursuant to Chapter 333, Minnesota Statutes, the undersigned, who is or will be conducting or transacting business in the State of Minnesota under an assumed name, hereby certifies:

1. The assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted is:

Willows of Ramsey Hill

2. The address of the principal place of business is or will be:

80 Mackubin Street, St. Paul, MN 55102

3. The name and address of all persons conducting business under the above Assumed Name.

Episcopal Homes of Minnesota

490 East Lynnhurst Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55104

4. This certificate is an amendment of Certificate of Assumed Name number 1122445200026 currently on file with the Secretary of State.

I certify that I am authorized to sign this certificate and I further certify that I understand that by signing this certificate, I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under oath.

Dated: April 2, 2026

Signed: John Thomas Henry, Chief Executive Officer and President Published two times in the White Bear Press on April 22 and 29, 2026.

OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA SECRETARY OF STATE CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME

Pursuant to Chapter 333, Minnesota Statutes; the undersigned, who is or will be conducting or transacting a commercial business in the State of Minnesota under an assumed name, hereby certifies:

1. The assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted is: RRG Streaming Box & More

2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 1244 15th Ave. SE, Forest Lake, MN 55025

3. The name and street address of all persons conducting business under the above Assumed Name, including any corporation that may be conducting this business.

Richard Ross Geisthardt

1244 15th Ave. SE, Forest Lake, MN 55025

Dated: March 23, 2026

Signed: Richard Ross Geisthardt - Sole Proprietor

Published two times in the White Bear Press on April 22 and 29, 2026.

OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA SECRETARY OF STATE CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME

Pursuant to Chapter 333, Minnesota Statutes; the undersigned, who is or will be conducting or transacting a commercial business in the State of Minnesota under an assumed name, hereby certifies:

1. The assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted is: Great American Home Warranty

2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be:

3355 W. Alabama Street, Suite 1200A, Houston, MN 77098

3. The name and street address of all persons conducting business under the above Assumed Name, including any corporation that may be conducting this business.

Marathon Administrative Co., Inc.

3355 W. Alabama Street, Suite 1200A, Houston, MN 77098

Dated: February 25, 2026

Signed: John B Bryan Published two times in the White Bear Press on April 22 and 29, 2026.

OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA SECRETARY OF STATE CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME

Pursuant to Chapter 333, Minnesota Statutes; the undersigned, who is or will be conducting or transacting a commercial business in the State of Minnesota under an assumed name, hereby certifies:

1. The assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted is: Beck’s Best.com LLC

2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 1732 Rosewood Ave. S Maplewood, MN 55109

3. The name and street address of all persons conducting business under the above Assumed Name, including any corporation that may be conducting this business.

John E. Beck

1732 Rosewood Ave. S Maplewood, MN 55109

Dated: April 13, 2026

Signed: John E. Beck, Owner

Published two times in the White Bear Press on April 29 and May 6, 2026.

OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA SECRETARY OF STATE CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME

Pursuant to Chapter 333, Minnesota Statutes; the undersigned, who is or will be conducting or transacting a commercial business in the State of Minnesota under an assumed name, hereby certifies:

1. The assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted is: Riprippled Productions

2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 2550 UNIVERSITY AVE W, STE 180S, SAINT PAUL, MN 55114

3. The name and street address of all persons conducting business under the above Assumed Name, including any corporation that may be conducting this business. Friends of the Boundary Waters Wilderness 2550 UNIVERSITY AVE W, STE 180S, SAINT PAUL, MN 55114

Dated: April 22, 2026

Signed: Bree B Sikorski

Published two times in the White Bear Press on April 29 and May 6, 2026.

APPLE FORD

NOTICE OF SHERIFF SALE

2018 Ford Escape, 1FMCU0GDXJUA96168

Location: Apple Ford, 1493 Co. Rd. E East, White Bear Lake MN, 55110

Date of Sale: 4/30/2026

Published one time in the White Bear Press on April 29, 2026.

CITY OF MAHTOMEDI

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Notice is hereby given that on May 13, 2026, 6:30 p.m. at City Hall, 600 Stillwater Road, the Mahtomedi Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to solicit public response to a request from James and Ann Woodruff at 1356 Griffin Ave., for a variance from the front yard setback requirement to allow the construction of an awning over the front stoop. The Planning Commission will make a recommendation regarding the proposed request to the City Council, for their meeting to be held on May 19, 2026, 7:00 p.m. at City Hall. Those persons having an interest in said meetings are encouraged to attend.

If you have questions about this notice or if you would like further information regarding the project described above, please contact Hannah Rybak, Mahtomedi City Planner, at 612-269-3684. Written comments may be submitted to City Hall, or via email at hrybak@wsbeng.com.

Scott Neilson, City Administrator

Published one time in the White Bear Press on April 29, 2026.

CITY OF WHITE BEAR LAKE

PUBLIC HEARING REGARDING SWPPP

The City of White Bear Lake will hold a public hearing to review the City’s Storm Water Pollution Prevention Program (SWPPP) and receive public comments regarding the program and its appropriateness at the regular City Council meeting on May 12, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. The public hearing will be held in the City Hall Council Chamber at 4701 Highway 61, White Bear Lake, and will consist of an overview of the City’s SWPPP and the activities completed in 2025. The hearing will include opportunity for public comment on the appropriateness of the program. Written and oral comments received before or during the hearing will be considered as the City prepares its annual report to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency on its SWPPP.

A copy of the City of White Bear Lake’s SWPPP may be reviewed at City Hall, or on the City’s website at whitebearlakemn.gov.

The City of White Bear Lake’s SWPPP was prepared to address the requirements of the Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) General Permit that may be reviewed at pca.state.mn.us/business-with-us/ms4general-permit

Paul Kauppi, Public Works Director/City Engineer

Publishd one time in the White Bear Press on April 29, 2026.

WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Town of White Bear will receive sealed Bids for the construction of the Anderlie Lane Area Street Improvements project, consisting of the following:

TONS Bituminous Paving

inputting Quest Project No. 10104464 on the website’s Project Search page. Please contact QuestCDN.com at 952-233-1632 or info@questcdn.com for assistance in free membership registration, downloading, and working with this digital project information.

Contractors desiring drawings, specifications, and related documents for the purpose of submitting a bid may secure them from the Engineers upon a non-refundable payment of $50 for each set. Mail orders for Drawings and Specifications, and orders for Drawings and Specifications will not be taken by the Town.

Every bidder must apply to the Town Clerk at 1281 Hammond Road, Town of White Bear, for a Permit before conducting any subsurface investigation and such bidder shall be responsible to check with the utility companies concerning the location of any buried utility services.

Bids will be received by the Town of White Bear until 10:00am, Wednesday May 13, 2026. For this solicitation, bids will ONLY be received and accepted via the online electronic bid service through QuestCDN.com for an additional bidding fee of $30. Download the bid documents and click the online bidding button at the top of the advertisement to access the electronic bid qualifications and bid worksheet. Bids will be electronically opened and publicly read aloud by representatives of the Town of White Bear.

Each bid must be accompanied by a bid bond or cashier’s check payable to White Bear Township in an amount not less than five percent (5%) of the total bid as a guarantee that the bidder, if successful, will enter into a contract with the Owner for the work described in the proposal. This deposit will be subject to forfeiture as provided by law. The deposits for the three lowest bidders will be retained by the Owner until the contract has been awarded and executed but not longer than sixty (60) days. No bid may be withdrawn for a period of sixty (60) days following the bid opening.

The Owner reserves the right to reject any or all bids, to waive informalities or to award the contract to the lowest responsible bidder, in the best interest of the Owner.

The Town Board will consider award of contracts at a regular meeting to be held on Monday, May 18, 2026, beginning at 7:00pm.

Patrick Christopherson, Town Clerk

Dated: April 20, 2026

Published to Questcdn.com on April 22, 2026

Published two times in the White Bear Press on April 22 and 29, 2026.

WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Town of White Bear will receive sealed Bids for the construction of the Bloom Addition Area Street Improvements project, consisting of the following:

1300 Tons Bituminous Paving

12000 SY Mill Bituminous Surface

2500 LF Remove and Replace Concrete Curb and Gutter

11 Each Locate Gate Valve and Replace Valve Box

4 Each Remove and Replace Gate Valve 1230 CY Storm Pond Excavation

Bid forms, contract documents, drawings and specifications as prepared by TKDA, are on file for inspection in the office of the Town Clerk and in the office of the Engineers, whose address is 3311 E Old Shakopee Rd, Suite 300, Bloomington, MN 55425.

Complete digital Proposal Forms, Plans, and Specifications for use by

Contractors submitting a bid are available at www.questcdn.com. You may download the digital plan documents for a non-refundable fee of $25 by inputting Quest Project No. 10104469 on the website’s Project Search page. Please contact QuestCDN.com at 952-233-1632 or info@questcdn.com for assistance in free membership registration, downloading, and working with this digital project information.

Bids will be received by the Town of White Bear until 10:30am, Wednesday, May 13, 2026. For this solicitation, bids will ONLY be received and accepted via the online electronic bid service through QuestCDN.com for an additional bidding fee of $30. Download the bid documents and click the online bidding button at the top of the advertisement to access the electronic bid qualifications and bid worksheet. Bids will be electronically opened and publicly read aloud by representatives of the Town of White Bear.

The White Bear Township Board next meets at 7 p.m. Monday, May 4, at Heritage Hall, 4200 Otter Lake Road.

Jackie Bussjaeger

JACKIE BUSSJAEGER | CONTRIBUTED

From left: Darryl LeMire, David Roster and Doug Binder.

PARKINSON’S AWARENESS MONTH: Ping pong group serves as ‘medicine’

spread the care out to our kids and grandparents and others that need help. But she’s really stepped up and made a big difference in how I handle this.”

Hawkinson mentioned that Linda has taken on more household responsibilities, as he cannot do as much around the house anymore. She has helped him slow down and focus on himself. Hawkinson said she really made him think, “is it worth the risk when it comes to certain things like climbing on ladders, shoveling snow, changing things and painting?”

Hawkinson’s main source of “medicine” is his Ping Pong Parkinson’s group. He tried boxing first, but didn’t enjoy it as his arms got sore. Then, after doing research about exercises that can help with neurological diseases like PD, he discovered that ping pong was good for mental and physical stimulation.

In the beginning, he didn’t know where to start. He didn’t have a ping pong table or know anyone with one. After some searching, he found a table tennis practice facility in South St. Paul that offered skills clinics. Hawkinson started attending these

• Mahtomedi moved one step closer to bringing a useful enterprise to the long abandoned southeast corner of Century Avenue and Long Lake Road, after the Mahtomedi City Council approved a minor site plan amendment for Club Carwash. The site plan amendment resulted from the removal of two vacuum stalls from the original proposal. The business would now have 18 parking stalls/ vacuum stalls, as opposed to the 20 proposed in the original site plan. The original conditional use permit remains as originally approved. The site at 3122 Century Avenue is currently undeveloped, as Northern Tier Retail has not yet bought the property for its proposed car wash. Further discussion with engineers about the complicated intersection to the west of the car wash has led to the decision

and thought that it was fun, but found himself at a disadvantage when playing unimpaired people. He wanted to do more and include other PD people.

He then found the Ping Pong Parkinson’s group, which has more than 400 locations across the world. Hawkinson was hoping to find a group, but discovered that the nearest one was in Madison, Wisconsin. He started a new chapter located in South St. Paul. He spoke with the table tennis facility and found times on Tuesdays and Thursdays to host. He reached out to local support groups and newsletters to get volunteers and participants. At first, he started with only a few members, but the group has grown over almost two years. Hawkinson was delighted by these numbers and the new community.

“Suddenly, I made 25-30 new friends,” he said. “I didn’t think at this phase of my life I would be so saturated with new friends. But truly, I’ve gotten to know all of these people. It’s taken on the role of a support group without really being a support group.”

His positive attitude has helped him battle the mental side of this disease. He hopes that others will learn how beneficial ping pong can be for PD and other neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s.

In the end, the battle with Parkinson’s for

not to install a center median on Long Lake Road. Vehicles would now be able to enter and leave the car wash via left or right turns. The car wash will move its driveway farther east and away from the traffic light. The decision to scratch the center median was made to preempt all the U-turns that motorists would have made to be able to head west toward the traffic lights. The tunnel wash that is planned will be able to process a vehicle every 30 seconds, so that vehicles can move expeditiously through the line.

• Every year, the city televises its sewer lines to look for deficiencies. It takes three years for the city to run through its inspection cycle, and this year it’s District 3’s turn to be inspected and cleaned. District 3 is the largest area of the city, with 62,459 linear feet of lines.

Mariner students qualify for National History Day

Six students from Mariner Middle School have qualified for the National History Day competition scheduled for June 13-19 at the University of Maryland. Marley Hopkins, Charley Ross, Lily Smith and Dessa Sowles were the State History Day champions in the Group Exhibit category for their project, "The Love Canal.” Aubree Dowdle and Grace Newstrand placed second in Group Exhibit for their project, "Jenson v. Eveleth.” A total of 19 seventh graders from Mariner competed at State History Day.

City staff reached out to three reputable vendors for proposals and received the lowest bid from Hydro-Klean LLC in the amount of $103,681.94. Council unanimously (4-0; Council Member Lilly Melander was absent) awarded the sanitary sewer cleaning and televising contract to Hydro-Klean LLC.

• Four public works employees will start work mid-May.

• When Mahtomedi Fire Chief Joel Schmidt came on board and evaluated the department, he recognized the need for an assistant fire chief/ fire marshal. The city has now hired Brent Fyksen to fill that position.

The assistant chief/ fire marshal will enhance operational leadership, strengthen fire prevention efforts and support the continued growth of the department. The city was able to allocate funding for this position

April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month. The Parkinson’s Foundation is hosting Moving Day Twin Cities, a walk for Parkinson’s disease, in Plymouth on May 2. This event honors those living with Parkinson’s, raises public awareness and supports the work of the Parkinson’s Foundation. Moving Day is a celebration of the power of movement, which is proven to help manage Parkinson’s symptoms. Visit MovingDayWalk.org for more information.

Hawkinson is about having a positive mindset, staying active and finding a group to support you.

Inga Heinecke is a senior at the University of Minnesota, where she is studying strategic communications. Heinecke has a passion for writing and the outdoors. She hopes to work in the public relations industry after she graduates this spring.

during the 2026 budget process. Fyksen comes to Mahtomedi from North St. Paul, where he has been serving as fire marshal. During his 14 years of service, Fyksen has held multiple leadership roles, and most recently served at the assistant chief level. Fyksen has lived in Mahtomedi for two years.

• In his report, City Engineer Nick Guilliams updated the city on the STH 120/Century Avenue project, saying that Washington County will delay the start of any construction pertaining to the Century Avenue turnback project until 2028. The delay will allow motorists to deal with one major detour at a time, and the city and county will have more time to secure funding and acquire needed rights of way. Mayor Richard Brainerd suggested that a letter of support for the county’s decision might be a

The White Bear Lions will be joining other Minnesota Lions Clubs at the U of M Landscape Arboretum in Chaska on Saturday, June 6, 2026 for the Minnesota Lions Hearing Foundation’s Annual Walk to D-FEET Hearing loss. Some of the programs that have benefitted from this walk are Lions Children’s Hearing Center, Lions Children’s Hearing & Ent Clinic, Advanced diagnostic equipment for hearing clinics and new state-of-the-art testing booth & equipment. Please consider joining us or if you are unable to participate in person, making a donation to support this important cause. We need YOU to help us create a world where hearing loss doesn’t mean isolation.

good idea.

• In his report, Fire Chief Schmidt said the area is in high fire danger and noted that a permit is currently required for anyone wanting to burn brush. Fire permits can be obtained from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources or at City Hall. He added that the department will be on a campaign to recruit new paid on-call members over the summer.

• In his report, Public Works Director Bob Goebel said the city is now fixing potholes; street sweeping will end soon; all park buildings except those at the beach will be open by the end of the week; and the pickleball courts are open.

The council next meets at 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 5, at City Hall, 600 Stillwater Road.

Loretta Harding

Pictured Lion Jeff Carnes

• School Board Member Daneil Skaar requested that the School Board add a discussion item to the agenda to discuss the shift to multigrade classrooms for next year for fourth and fifth grade. Chair Scott Arcand explained that the item was on the school board’s work session agenda for April 27 (after press deadline).

“I want to talk about how we can get more parent/ guardian input on the process. We received a very thoughtful, articulate email from a concerned parent and I’ve also heard from a couple of other parents,” Skaar said.

Arcand responded, “I’d kind of like to wait until we hear from the committee when they come in and talk about it so that we have more information … I think it’s important to hear from the designing team before to see what they are going to bring forward, because we don’t really know what’s coming forward yet.”

• Next September, fifth grade students from Otter Lake Elementary will attend Deep Portage Environmental Camp for hands-on experience to expand the

science curriculum. Approximately 90 students are expected to attend and miss three days of school.

• Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning Dr. Allison Gillespie and four principals recently visited the school board to dive into the recently released graduation rates data as well as estimated attendance data. (See full story in this week’s issue.)

• Every other year, the district issues long-term facilities maintenance (LTFM) bonds to fund deferred maintenance projects across its multiple sites. The last LTFM issue was in 2024. The board previously approved a resolution stating the intention of the district to issue facility maintenance and refunding bonds related to the district's outstanding 2018A issuance. Assistant Superintendent for Finance and Operations Tim Wald explained that market conditions have changed since that time and there are no longer enough savings to warrant the refunding of the 2018A bond issuance. For that reason, the issuance was narrowed to a facility

maintenance bond only. Shelby McQuay, of Ehlers Public Finance Advisors, said there was a lot of interest in the bonds. Ten bidders submitted with an interest range of 3.0355% up to 3.2501%. Jefferies LLC out of New York submitted the low bid.

Skaar asked what the consequence would be if the board did not ratify the award of the facility maintenance bonds. McQuay responded, “If those bonds wouldn’t be awarded, underwriters would take note and it may get more difficult to sell bonds the next time you take bonds out to the competitive market.”

The board voted unanimously to adopt a resolution awarding the sale of $17,680,000 in general obligation facilities maintenance bonds, Series 2026A. The funds are scheduled to close May 7.

• Second readings are planned for a variety of policies at the May 11 meeting, including: Legal Status of the School Board (201), School Board Officers (202), Operation of the School Board Governing Rules (203), Out-of-State Travel by

School Board Members (214), School Board Member Code of Conduct (215), Mandated Reporting of Maltreatment of Vulnerable Adults (415), and Video Recording Other Than on Buses (712). After a second reading, the board approved three policies: Criminal or Civil Action (211), School Board Member Development (212) and Naming of School Buildings or Facilities (809).

• The American Indian Parent Advisory Committee has issued a vote of concurrence, meaning it feels the district is meeting the needs of its American Indian students. Each year AIPAC must discuss and vote on a “resolution of concurrence” when finding that the district has been meeting the needs of American Indian students.

The next regular school board meeting will be at 5:30 p.m. Monday, May 11, at the District Service Center at Sunrise Park, 2399 Cedar Ave.

Our

Shannon Granholm

Above: Heidi Nelson and Sharon Castellini were among the dozens of adult and scout volunteers recently planting trees and cleaning up at Rotary Park in White Bear Lake.

At right: Kaitlyn, Liviana and Rorik Carlson display the seed plantings they assembled during the recent RITE of Spring event at Wildwood Elementary School in Mahtomedi.

Above: Rotary volunteers planted and watered a variety of trees,

basswood, birch, service berry, pagoda and cranberry.

At left: RITE organizers, from left, Erin Roche, Mike Chevalier, Rick Lutz, Christine Ahmann-Maples, Brendan Keating and Tom Collins celebrated 20 years with this year’s installment of the

community event.

Best of the Press returns inviting community to spotlight local favorites

BY SHIVAM VASHISHTHA CONTRIBUTING WRITER

The familiar signs of spring in the northeast metro aren’t just warmer days and busier patios — they also signal the return of one of the community’s most anticipated traditions. The Readers’ Choice Best of the Press Contest is back for its sixth year, with nominations officially opening Wednesday, April 29.

Spanning multiple communities and publications, the annual contest gives readers the opportunity to recognize the people, businesses and places that define their local experience. From neighborhood restaurants and small businesses to essential service providers, the contest has grown into a reflection of what residents value most in their communities. This year’s contest has more than 150 categories, covering everything from dining and retail to services, schools and community events.

“It’s a great way for our readers and patrons to recognize the places they genuinely value — whether that’s a restaurant they love or a

service they’ve trusted for years,” said Patty Steele, general manager and marketing director for Press Publications. “Everything is driven by our readers. There’s nothing selected by us.”

What’s new this year:

This year brings a notable expansion. The Citizen and Quad markets will merge into a single, combined contest, broadening participation and increasing visibility for businesses across a wider area. This change is an indicator of both the growth of the program and continued interest from readers and business owners.

Organizers have also refreshed and modified categories to better reflect current trends and community priorities. Among the highlights:

• Meal for the Money, recognizing affordable, high-quality dining

• Chicken Wings, a category that’s sure to spark a debate

• Best Electrician, spotlighting skilled trades and essential services

• New Business, celebrating recent additions to the local landscape

“Some ideas come from us, but a lot come directly from readers and even businesses,” Steele added. “People

will call and say, ‘How do you not have this category?’ and we’ll realize — it’s a great addition.”

While returning favorites remain, these additions aim to capture both everyday needs and evolving tastes.

A

boost for local businesses

For many businesses, being named a “Best of” winner carries real impact. Past honorees such as the Hugo American Legion and Cabin 61 have seen increased visibility and customer engagement following recognition in the contest.

“When a business is nominated year after year, it tells other readers that the place is trusted and authentic,” Steele noted. “It shows consistency and that they’re doing something right.”

That visibility is especially meaningful for small and locally owned businesses that rely heavily on community support and word of mouth.

How it works

The process begins with nominations, when readers can submit their favorite businesses and organizations across a range

Choice 2026

of categories. After the nomination period closes, the top contenders move on to a voting round, where the community determines the final winners.

Specific timelines for nomination and voting phases will vary slightly across publications, but all contests will be accessible through the “Best Of” section at presspubs.com.

Participants are encouraged to nominate early and often, which helps ensure that their favorite spots make it onto the ballot. “Every year, we’ve seen growth in participation,” Steele indicated. “We’ve never gone backward — it continues to build momentum.”

A reflection of the community At its core, the Readers’ Choice Best of the Press Contest is less about rankings and more about recognition. It highlights the places people return to, the services they trust and the businesses that help shape everyday life in their communities. As nominations open at the end of April, readers once again have the chance to weigh in — and to make sure their local favorites get the recognition they deserve.

PRESS CONTEST

Appetizer

Contest Categories 2026

Italian Restaurant

Lasagna

Lunch

Mocktail at a Bar/Restau-

Meal for the Money

Dining

Seafood

Soup

Spirits at a Liquor Store

Steak Dinner

Sub/Sandwich

Tacos

Walleye Dinner

Wine at a Bar/Restaurant

Wine Selection at a Liquor Store

Health & Fitness

Assisted Living

Acupuncturist

Audiologist

Chiropractic Care

Chiropractor

Cosmetic Dentist

Dentist

Dermatology

Esthetician Eye Doctor Gym

Healthcare Facility

Health Food Store

Hospice Care

Massage Therapist

Mental Health Service

Orthodontics

Orthopedic Clinic

Orthopedic Doctor/Surgeon

Pediatric Dentist

Pharmacist

Physical Therapist

Physical Therapy Clinic

Retirement Facility/Independent Living

Senior Care Facility

Local Apple Orchard

Curbside Pickup

Elementary School

High School Middle School New Business Place To Work, Large (>50 Employees)

Place To Work,

Teacher K-5

Exterior Painting Service

Financial Planner

Hair Stylist (Include

Name/Place Of Work) Hair Salon

Heating/Air Conditioning

Insurance Agent Insurance Company Jeweler

Accounting Firm

Landscape Company

Lawn Care Service

Lawyer

Mechanic

Mortgage Company Oil Change Paint Store

(Include

Pet Sitter/Boarding

Remodeler

Rental Business

Roofer

Self Storage

Server (Include First/ Last Name/Place Of Work)

was 97.3%; for the ALC, it was 82.2%.

“That does put us at the top of the metro area,” Gillespie said. “You cannot have a successful high school without every single thing that we are doing across our system, so it is something that our early childhood educators, our elementary educators, middle school and high school should feel proud of … All of that matters and comes to this final graduation data.”

She pointed out that the district pays close attention to those who do not graduate to make sure they are connected to the right resources. “For every student that doesn’t graduate, it is important that we know why,” Gillespie said.

Of the 24 ALC students who did not graduate, 13 are currently enrolled in the district’s transition programming, and 98% percent of students graduated according to their plan.

At the high school, 43 students did not graduate. Of those students, 22 are currently enrolled in the district. Six students continued with the district’s 18–22-year-old programming at the beginning of the 2025-26 school year, but had not attended school for 15 consecutive days at the time of Gillespie’s presentation. (The state requires the district to unenroll the students, however, they may reenroll with the district or enroll with another district.) Two students reached compulsory age of 18, meaning they had the legal authority to withdraw from the district, and four students transferred outside of the district. Why the remaining nine did not graduate is not known.

“You cannot discount students feeling safe and cared for at school. It really matters a lot. Students like coming to school because of the opportunities to connect, to be welcomed, to belong,” Nelson explained. “Families go on vacation, which we totally appreciate, but those days add up really quickly even though they are excused.”

Peterson says the focus at the middle school level is on the student experience. “There is no time, other than from 0 to 12 months, where their brain is changing so quickly … We want kids to leave and feel happy and proud of themselves,” she explained. “Sometimes attendance issues are within their control. We want to teach kids how to advocate for themselves and use their resources so they can be successful.”

Reetz said the focus at the high school is on period and full-day attendance. The high school has implemented some strategies like not allowing students to leave class within the first and last 10 minutes of class and not allowing students to take their cell phones with them when they leave the classroom. “You would be surprised how quickly they want to be back in the room … they never want to be too far away from (their phone),” Reetz said. “Much of our improvement is because our students understand there is an ownership component to their learning, and they have chosen to make good choices.”

“Our attendance rate saw almost a 7% increase and our discipline incident referrals were down 46%.

Russ Reetz WBLAHS Principal

School Board Member Christina Streiff Oji pointed out that the attendance rates at Willow Lane are significantly lower than other schools and wondered what the district was doing to try to address that. For the 20242025 school year, Willow Lane’s average attendance is approximately 72.50% (The data will be released this August), compared to 46.20% in 2021-22.

sure students are staying in class.

“We are proud of results, and we know we still have work to do on behalf of our students (and) families, and the commitment is there,” Gillespie said. “Our students stayed engaged, our educators connect with them, and we should be really proud of where we sit in White Bear Lake Area Schools.”

Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or whitebearnews@presspubs.com.

School Board Member Angela Thompson pointed out that there are a lot of things that are out of the district’s control but praised district staff for the work they continue to do on what they can control. “There are a lot of circumstances that are out of our district staff’s ability to control what is happening outside our buildings, but the work that you guys are doing in the buildings is reflected in the data that is coming out. I’m honored and proud to be a board member in a district that is doing this.”

Attendance

Gillespie says the district is seeing some positive trends. She noted that attendance is one of the most consistent indicators of academic performance, student engagement and graduation. “We are really proud of the growth we have seen in our attendance data," Gillespie said.

The average percentage of elementary students who attended school at least 90% of the time and were enrolled in the district for at least 50% of the year was 85.41% in 2024-25 compared to 60.27% in 2021-22. “That is significant when you look at four years, the years that we’ve had in terms of rebounding during the pandemic. The work we are doing is paying off, and it is absolutely in partnership with families,” Gillespie said. “Most of our schools are above 90%, if not close to 95% (this year).”

Leininger said elementary students want to be at school; chronic absenteeism often is a result of when families run into difficult times, he noted. Nelson added that at Otter Lake Elementary, they really focus on welcoming students to school when they are there and making them feel safe. It also comes down to family education about the impact missing school can have on a child’s learning.

Gillespie said that the district is partnering with some state resources on how to look at the data and figure out how to increase those numbers. In addition, school staff are intentional about family engagement. “We are seeing growth; it is just not as fast (as the other sites),” she said.

School Board Member Daniel Skaar asked whether there was a correlation between attendance and discipline at the high school. Reetz responded, “Our attendance rate saw almost a 7% increase and our discipline incident referrals were down 46%. I do think the two things are related. We had far less incidents occur in our hallways and bathrooms. We had less physical altercations and far less chemical use from one year to the next.”

Reetz added that some of that was due to the design of new spaces in the unified high school as well as the number of supervising adults in the building to make

Frassati Catholic Academy is happy to announce Mason Moxness as its Academic Achiever. Mason is hardworking, conscientious, and a considerate student. Mason’s assignments are of the highest quality. He always has time to help his fellow classmates

s.com

Ch eap

for a local

local events

and stories from around the lake. Ideal candidates have strong writing skills and an interest in the lake community. Please send resume and three writing clips to whitebearnews@presspubs.com.

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY, all real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Ho using Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preferen ce limitation or discriminat ion based on race, co lo r, religion,

WE BUY HOUSES for cash AS IS! No repairs No fuss Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys H ouses: 844/*978*0683

•

Zephyr baseball rolls up

4 quick conference wins

Mahtomedi picked up four conference wins in five days last week, improving to 8-1 overall and 8-0 in the Metro East, one game ahead of Two Rivers.

The Zephyrs beat St. Thomas Academy 8-5 with Jacob Reubish’s three-run double the big blow. Isaac Iten, Connor Finn, and Frank Schweiters had RBI hits. Tino Foster got the win (four innings, four unearned runs, three strikeouts).

Mahtomedi drubbed Hill-Murray 15-6 with a 14-hit attack led by Connor Finn going 3-for-4 (solo homer, three RBI’s), Luke Torgrude 3-for-5 (RBI, two

runs) and Isaac Iten 2-for-5 (two RBI’s, three runs). Cody Loida threw three scoreless innings in relief of Peyton Erickson.

The Zephyrs clipped Tartan 14-1 on Finn’s five-inning no-hitter with 10 strikeouts. Frank Schwieters was 3-for3 (two RBIs), Finn 2-for-3 (three RBI’s), Torgrude 2-for-3 (two RBI’s) and Alex Haase had an RBI single and sac fly. Alex Kurpis twirled a four-hit shutout with three strikeouts as the Zephyrs beat South St. Paul. Loida delivered a pair of RBI singles.

Bruce Strand

Zephyr flag footballers start 2-0

Mahtomedi’s girls flag football team, defending state champions, started their 2026 season with two wins at home, over Stillwater

19-0 and Forest Lake 28-20. This is the second year of the club team program sponsored by the Vikings. Freshman quarterback Katelyn

O’Connor passed for 348 yards (31-for-48) and six touchdowns in the two games, reported coach Nick Sullivan.

Clutch hits, Miller’s arm lift Bears to 3-0 week

BY BRUCE STRAND

SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

Three pitching gems by Lily Martin — four hits, 35 strikeouts in 21 innings — and two big swings of the bat by Allie Casemore highlighted a 3-0 week by White Bear Lake softball.

The Bears (6-2) won 4-3 over East Ridge (3-4) as Miller, senior right-hander, had a three-hitter, with an error leading to three unearned runs. RBI hits were delivered by Kendall Roeser, Allie Castro, Camille Castro and Maddie Pearson.

Miller twirled a nohitter with 13 strikeouts in a 3-0 win over Roseville Area (0-9). Casemore belted a tworun double in the first inning, to deep rightcenter, on a 3-2 count after fouling off four pitches. Martin singled home the third run two innings later. Martin gave up one single and struck out 15 in a 2-0 win over

Mounds View-Irondale (6-5). Casemore, for the second straight game, smacked a tworun double in the first inning. MVI’s Annalise Foley held the Bears to seven hits and one walk.

BEARS

SPORTS

BRIEFS

FLAG FOOTBALL

White Bear Lake’s first-year girls flag football team made its debut at Mahtomedi with a loss to Forest Lake, 31-7, and a win over Stillwater, 20-14. With less than a minute left, Maddy Thompson snagged a pass in the end zone from Chloe Theissen to break a 14-14 tie.

BASEBALL

The Bears (2-5) picked up their first two wins, over Park 5-2 and Irondale 18-1, while losing to Cretin-Derham Hall 10-0, all on the road. Against Park (1-8) Jack Kook threw a four-hitter with five strikeouts, Logan Magnuson singled home two runs and Max Butters had an RBI single. CDH (3-2) got home runs from Davis Fleming, Harrison Falk and Joe Fenlon (grand slam) against the Bears. Brody Laschom took the loss. Against Irondale (0-5) the Bears had 18 hits and 14 walks. William Connors was 3-for-5 (double, two RBI’s, three steals), Magnuson 2-for-4 (triple, four RBI’s), Miles Oklobzija 2-for-2 (RBI, three runs), and Kook 2-for-5 (RBI). Jackson Kolb threw four innings (one run, nine strikeouts) for the win and Joseph Setter finished.

VOLLEYBALL

fourth (102-5) and Jinet Dimanou sixth (100-6). Also winning were Arianna Minor (high jump, 5-0), Grace Mueller (triple jump, 34-5) and Mabel Nethercut (3200 run, 11:36). Piper Heinsohn was second in the 400 (1:01)

GIRLS LACROSSE

White Bear Lake is 5-1 after a busy week in which they routed Irondale 17-1 and Totino-Grace 22-5 while absorbing their first loss, to Stillwater 8-7. Against Irondale, Cayla Helmberger netted five goals, Rylan West three, and Olive Holvig and Whitney Fleming two each. Against Stillwater (4-1), Helmberger tallied five goals and Olivia Simpkins and Whitney Fleming one each. Harper Laden, goalie, saved eight of 14 shots. Against Totino, West had six goals, Helmberger four, and Kylee Lehman, Kayla Swanson, Simpkins, Holvig and Hazel Holvig two each. Helmberger and West, both sophomores, lead with 21 goals apiece.

BOYS LACROSSE

White Bear Lake notched its first win, over Richfield 25-23, 24-21, 22-25, 25-16. Stillwater defeated the Bears (1-4) 25-19, 25-20, 22-25, 25-13.

GIRLS GOLF

In two nine-team Suburban East meets, White Bear Lake placed fifth at Tanners Brook in Forest Lake and sixth at Prestwick in Woodbury. East Ridge won both with 161 and 167. The Bears totaled 182 at Tanners Brook as Adelle Blasing and Maddy Vang shot 44’s and Macie Marston and Lily Sjostrom shot 48’s. The Bears totaled 188 at Prestwick where Vang had 40, Sjostrom 46, Lilly Maietta 50 and Nora Hall 52.

GIRLS TRACK

White Bear Lake placed third of six teams in a true-team format at Hopkins, won by Edina. The Bears had three of the top five in shot put — Madelyn Erickson first (39-5), Karen Enow second (34-5) and Pearl Niemioja fifth (33-6) — and three of the top six in discus — Enow first (120-9), Niemioja

White Bear Lake (3-2) dueled two unbeaten teams last week, beating Irondale 14-9 and losing to Stillwater 8-6. Wyatt Raleigh logged five goals and six ground balls against Irondale (5-1). Colton Butts and Gavin Huot added three goals each and Liam Maloy two. Tanner Olsen won seven ground balls. Reid Vickstrom, goalie, made 11 saves against Irondale and 15 against Stillwater (6-0), keeping it close. Butts had three goals, Huot two and Raleigh one against the Ponies.

TENNIS

The Bears (4-2) lost to Stillwater 4-3, getting singles wins from Martin Hennig, Mason Voeller and Brooks Peltier at 2-3-4. Stillwater beat Graham Hennig at 1-singles and swept the doubles.

BOYS GOLF

White Bear Lake placed 13th of 18 teams in The Preview, an annual gala featuring many of the best teams in the state, at Edinburgh in Brooklyn Park. The Bears scored 625 with Easton Fiddle shooting 76-69-145 for ninth place, Grady Geifer 80-72-152, Cody Olinger 83-80-163, and Thomas Pederson 83-83165. Edina won with 572 led by Sander Ohe, medalist with 70-67-137.

Bruce Strand

Mahtomedi Track & Field April 29, 2026

Andrew Russell, Mahtomedi senior track-and-field standout, highjumped 6 feet, 10 1/4 inches at Metro East mid-season meet last week, the best leap in the state this season. Russell was state Class 2A champion with 6-7 last June and had a season best of 6-10. His personal best is 6-10 3/4 in an indoor meet in January. Russell has also placed second in long jump in three meets with a long of 20-7 and runs the 4x100 relay that placed second in the MEC meet. The 6-foot-5, 170-pound athlete averaged 6.7 points on Mahtomedi’s 25-4, section runner-up basketball team this winter.